Lockerley Church of England Endowed Primary School, located in Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 12, 2021. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing pride in their kind and welcoming environment. The relationships among staff and students are notably strong, fostering a safe atmosphere where pupils feel comfortable discussing their concerns. This supportive environment has been particularly appreciated by families during the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The school emphasizes its core values of love, courage, and respect, which are integrated into daily activities. Pupils are encouraged to celebrate individuality and engage thoughtfully with one another's ideas. The school provides various play areas, including quieter spaces for reflection, promoting a culture of looking out for one another, which contributes to the rarity of bullying incidents. When issues arise, school leaders respond with appropriate and sensitive measures.
Academically, pupils perform well across most subjects, driven by the school's high expectations for both work and behavior. The curriculum, designed to inspire creativity and exploration, is well-structured and interconnected across year groups. Teachers have clearly defined the knowledge pupils should acquire, enabling them to recall their learning effectively in subjects like English, mathematics, history, and geography. However, there is a need for further development in subjects such as art and music, where teachers currently feel less confident in assessing and enhancing pupils' skills.
The school places a strong emphasis on fostering a love of reading from the earliest stages. Reception and Year 1 pupils receive targeted support in learning letters and sounds, with additional help provided to those who struggle. A diverse selection of books is available for pupils to read at home, and daily story sessions in school promote a shared love of literature. By the end of Year 6, most pupils are fluent and enthusiastic readers.
In the early years, children are engaged and curious, with learning activities designed around interesting themes that stimulate exploration. Staff regularly assess children's progress and implement individualized plans to support their development, particularly in speech and language skills.
The school is inclusive, providing necessary support for vulnerable pupils, including those with special educational needs. Staff are well-trained to identify and address individual needs, ensuring equitable learning opportunities for all students. Pupils generally exhibit good behavior and focus during lessons, with staff adept at managing any challenges that arise.
Extra-curricular activities are abundant, offering pupils experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Clubs such as yoga and archery are available, and leaders actively work to ensure all pupils can participate. During remote education periods, innovative activities continued, including virtual events that engaged pupils.
The leadership team is committed to staff well-being and workload management, fostering a positive working environment. Staff appreciate the high-quality training provided, which enhances their skills and confidence in delivering effective education.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with all staff taking their responsibilities seriously. The school prioritizes the well-being of its community, providing resources for mental and physical health education. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there is a recognized need for ongoing development in certain subjects to ensure a comprehensive educational experience for all pupils.